[Windows] How do I map an external drive on my computer?

Overview

This article provides step-by-step instructions for mapping an external drive to your windows computer.

Instructions

Option 1:

  1. Right-click on the 'My Computer' icon on your desktop.

    My computer icon
     
  2. Select 'Map Network' drive.
  3. Choose a drive letter that is not currently being used or select the drive letter associated with your department’s network share.
  4. In the Folder field, type '\\nas01.itap.purdue.edu\(department folder)'.
  5. Check the boxes 'Reconnect at Log on' and 'Connect' using a different user name.

    Map network drive window with "reconnect at sign-in" and "connect using different credentials" checked off

     
  6. Click the link 'Connect' using a different user name.
  7. Enter 'BoilerAD\alias'.
  8. Then enter your BoilerAD Password.
  9. Click 'OK'.
  10. Click 'Finish'.

Option 2:

  1. Open File Explorer from the taskbar or the Start Menu, or press the Windows logo key  + E.
  2. Then, on the File Explorer ribbon, select More (…)  > Map network drive

    Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)
    Note: If you don't see Map network drive on the More menu, you can right-click the This PC node in the folder pane and you'll see the command there.
     
  3. In the Drive list, select a Drive letter. (Any available letter will do.)

    Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)
  4. In the Folder box, type the path of the folder or computer, or select Browse to find the folder or computer. Select Reconnect at sign-in.
  5. Select Finish.
  6. If you're presented with a login screen, enter your Purdue Credentials like you see below:
    1. Boilerad\username
    2. Purdue Computer Password

If all access was successfully given and the credentials were entered correctly then you will see the network location appear. 

Still need help?  Click the 'Purdue IT Request' button to start a ticket.

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